ICESCO Joins Gaza’s Children in ‘Enjoy Your Life with Music’

ICESCO Joins Gaza’s Children in ‘Enjoy Your Life with Music’
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ICESCO Joins Gaza’s Children in ‘Enjoy Your Life with Music’

ICESCO Joins Gaza’s Children in ‘Enjoy Your Life with Music’

The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) took part in the closing ceremony of the “Enjoy Your Life with Music,” an ICESCO-funded initiative that was held in Gaza and organized by the Palestinian National Commission for Education, Culture and Science in partnership with Al-Sununu Association for Culture and Arts.

The project is aimed at improving the mental health of Gaza’s children, particularly those who have been exposed to violence and suffer from post-traumatic stress, by using music therapy as a means for unleashing positive creative expression that has an array of psychological benefits and helps unlock children’s full potential.

Dr. Mohammed Zine El Abidine, Head of ICESCO’s Culture and Communication Sector, represented the Organization at the ceremony held on Saturday via videoconference.

In his statement, Dr. Zine El Abidine stressed the need for a peaceful and serene world free of conflict and hostility, noting that music is a universal language we all understand that has deep philosophical roots and appeals to the mind and soul.

He added that ICESCO seeks to promote peace and believes in the role youths can play in peace-building, which has pushed it to launch several programs aimed at training youths and building their capacities, especially in anchoring peace and coexistence and promoting technology, innovation, and strategic foresight.

At the end of the ceremony, Al-Sununu Association for Culture and Arts offered its shield to ICESCO Director-General Dr. Salim M. AlMalik in recognition of his efforts and in appreciation of the Organization’s support for this program.

Dr. Dawas Dawas, the Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, Chairman of ICESCO’s Executive Council, received the shield on Malik’s behalf.



Red Sea Film Festival Unveils ‘New Saudi, New Cinema’ Program for Filmmakers

The Red Sea International Film Festival
The Red Sea International Film Festival
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Red Sea Film Festival Unveils ‘New Saudi, New Cinema’ Program for Filmmakers

The Red Sea International Film Festival
The Red Sea International Film Festival

The Red Sea International Film Festival revealed Thursday the highlights of its fourth edition in December, introducing the "New Saudi, New Cinema" program dedicated for filmmakers.

The initiative is set to embody diversity and innovation in the vibrant Saudi cinematic landscape, illuminating authentic local narratives that delve deep into the rich tapestry of Saudi cultural identity and heritage.

This year’s program features a selection of 20 films, varying from fantasy to reality and showcasing the talents of Saudi creators. The movies exhibit compelling themes such as ambition, identity, music, and inherited narratives, while exploring the intricate dynamics of human relationships.

The program reflects the talented individuals’ potential in narrating unique stories in an innovative fashion, propelling the development and global resonance of Saudi cinema.

The films herald a fresh vision for the Saudi film industry, underscoring the unwavering support of the festival for Saudi filmmakers who have triumphed on the global stage. The festival stands as a premier platform for these visionaries to unveil their talents and creations to a worldwide audience.

Red Sea International Film Festival director of Arab programs and film classics Antoine Khalife highlighted the festival's steadfast dedication to presenting a program that mirrors the ever-evolving landscape of Saudi cinema. He expressed his enthusiasm in showcasing a diverse array of films this year, spanning animated features, narratives, and documentaries.